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Barcelona forward Raphinha has voiced strong belief that both he and Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior have what it takes to lead Brazil to a record-extending sixth World Cup title this summer. Speaking from Brazil’s national training camp ahead of the 2026 tournament, Raphinha underlined the importance of blending youthful energy with seasoned experience to finally end the nation’s long wait for the trophy since 2002.

The dream of a sixth World Cup crown remains unfulfilled for Brazil, as they have fallen short in each of the last five editions. The Selecao have progressed beyond the quarter-finals only once since their 2002 triumph, and with every passing tournament, the weight of expectation continues to mount on the players. The current generation, Raphinha admitted, is well aware of that burden.

With Neymar still struggling to regain full fitness ahead of the tournament, the attacking responsibility will fall largely on the shoulders of Vinicius and Raphinha. The duo will need to step up in crucial moments if Brazil are to reclaim the world title.

Despite being rivals at club level, Raphinha has full faith in Vinicius. The Real Madrid winger endured a mixed club season as his team missed out on major silverware in 2025-26, but he still managed an impressive 22 goals from 53 appearances. Raphinha believes that form and experience will make a difference on the world stage.

“Vini is still young, but considering his experience and what he has already achieved, he can turn a World Cup match around and help us win the sixth title. I include myself in that group too,” Raphinha said with confidence.

The former Leeds United player also reflected on his own challenging season at Barcelona, which was disrupted by injuries. Despite the setbacks, he managed to score 21 goals in 33 appearances. Raphinha stressed the importance of collective defensive strength and discipline if Brazil are to succeed.

“We are arriving very well prepared,” he noted. “It’s important to train the defensive side a lot. If we defend well, our chances of winning increase greatly. The World Cup is short and unpredictable with limited time to adjust. We are working hard to adapt and minimise mistakes.”

Raphinha also spoke warmly about his working relationship with Brazil’s head coach Carlo Ancelotti. The Italian manager, who previously led Real Madrid before taking charge of the national team, has, according to Raphinha, built a positive and motivating environment within the squad.

Although injuries have sidelined him for nearly half of Brazil’s matches since Ancelotti took over in May 2025, Raphinha feels supported by his coach. “Even though we were rivals before, we always shared a good relationship,” he said.

The winger remains determined to reach top form at the right moment. “Ancelotti is very pleased with what I’ve been showing in training and matches, but I know I can still do much more. I’m chasing my best version,” he added.

As Brazil prepare to launch their World Cup campaign, they will open their Group C journey against Morocco this weekend. Ancelotti’s side will next face Haiti before wrapping up the group stage against Scotland.

Raphinha and Vinicius will be eager to carry their club-level brilliance into the tournament as Brazil aim to end a 24-year drought and lift their sixth world title.

Can Brazil finally go all the way at the 2026 World Cup?